“Christ Showing A Little Child As The Emblem Of Heaven,” created by Benjamin West in 1790, is an oil on canvas painting that encompasses the Neoclassicism art movement. This religious painting measures 70 by 50.5 centimeters and is presently held in a private collection.
In the artwork, Christ is depicted seated centrally, draped in a rich red robe accompanied by a blue sash. He is surrounded by a group of men, women, and children, each depicted with a unique expression that conveys reverence and contemplation. At His side, Christ holds an innocent, naked child up in a gentle manner, signifying the child as a symbol of purity and the embodiment of heaven. The backdrop includes architectural elements and a glimpse of an open landscape, which add depth and context to the scene. The composition skillfully directs focus toward the central figures, using both light and arrangement to emphasize their importance, illustrating the religious significance West aimed to capture.
